Skiing being a winter sport requires the perfect conditions and snow quality to be an enjoyable and safe experience. While it’s not possible to ski all year round, the slopes of Gulmarg open up for a few months for skiers, both beginners and professionals. Gulmarg is home to top notch ski resorts, skiing infrastructure and snow conditions that make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to start their skiing journey or even continue it! But that’s not all Gulmarg has to offer. Once in Gulmarg, there are a number of things the place offers to visitors to enjoy a holiday to the fullest extent.
In this article we write about the best time to ski in Gulmarg along with what Gulmarg is like in different seasons and things to do in this quaint town nestled in Jammu and Kashmir.
Best Time to Ski in Gulmarg
The ski season in Gulmarg is typically between the beginning of January and end of March. Sometimes the season extends into April if the conditions remain ideal for skiing. The best time to ski in top notch snow conditions is between the third week of January to late-February. This period sees the most amount of snow and creates ideal skiing conditions. While March sees lesser tourists, the heat during this time results in the snow transforming very rapidly, meaning the conditions cannot be guaranteed.
Gulmarg in Different Seasons
October - February
These are the winter months in Gulmarg and the region is covered in snow, transforming it into a winter wonderland. Temperatures in the region range between 11℃ and - 4℃, making it really cold. However, the snow clad meadows and frozen icicles on coniferous trees more than make up for the biting cold weather with their captivating views.
March - June
March marks the beginning of summer with a moderate rise in temperatures which increase over the next few months. The temperatures range between 13℃ and 29℃. This creates an ideal atmosphere for tourists to visit this region without having to deal with the extreme temperatures. This season also sees the flowers in full bloom, transforming the valley into a burst of colours.
July-September
This period is considered as monsoon in Gulmarg although the region receives an insignificant amount of rainfall, which in fact ups the temperature by a few degrees. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, then the monsoon is the best time to visit Gulmarg. The lakes and waterfalls are full to their brim and shine against the lush green colour of their surroundings. The landscape is dreamy with the fog and occasional showers.
Things to do in Gulmarg in Different Seasons
Winter
Winter creates the perfect atmosphere in Gulmarg for winter adventure sports or even to just revel in the beauty of the landscape. If you are in Gulmarg this winter, the following are a few things you can do to make the most of your holiday!
1. Skiing: This is one of the most popular winter sports in Gulmarg. Gulmarg offers slopes for both beginners and professionals, making it accessible to anyone who wants to try skiing. THe skiing infrastructure available in Gulmarg is also the best in India.
2. Ice Skating: Freezing temperatures in Gulmarg during winters turn small lakes into solid ice, making them perfect for ice skating. Locally run adventure sports organisations offer ice skating to anyone who wants to give this fun-filled sport a try.
3. Trekking: A 3 km moderately difficult trail will take you to the frozen lake of Alpather which has ice boulders on it, making it a unique natural formation. Gulmarg is also surrounded by short trails for a quick day hike in the snowy landscape.
4. Drung Waterfall: A short drive from Gulmarg will take you to Drung, which is home to the cascading Drung waterfall. In winters, the entire waterfall is frozen with long enchanting icicles that elevate its beauty. It’s a must see if you have spare time and want to take a peek at what frozen waterfalls look like!
5. Gulmarg Snow Festival: This two-day long festival is organised to boost winter sports and tourism in the region and needless to say it’s super fun with activities like snowboarding and snow-sledging!
Summer and Monsoon
The summer months in Gulmarg offer pleasant weather for a wide range of activities and sight-seeing in the region. The lush green colour against the clear blue skies will leave you clicking a little too many pictures in every angle possible! The monsoons transform the landscape into a dreamy scenery with very few tourists around. The following are a few things to do in Gulmarg during summer and monsoon:
1. Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve: The biosphere reserve is home to a plethora of flora and fauna. A visit to this reserve and you can spot Koklas, Jungle Crow, Blue Rock Pigeon, Griffon Vulture and European Hoopoes amongst many other varieties of birds.
2. Gulmarg Golf Course: Yes, Gulmarg has a golf course! If you are looking to golf with mountains surrounding you and having a laid back day, the golf course is a great place to be! Rainfall during the monsoon is very scant so golfing would still be possible.
3. St.Mary’s Church: This 100 year old church showcases stunning Victorian architecture. Some quiet time inside this quaint church will leave you feeling peaceful and calm.
4. Baba Reshi Shrine: This shrine was built in the 13th century and is the tomb of a Muslim saint, Baba Payam Uddin, who passed away in 1408. Thousands of people visit this shrine every year to seek blessings.
We hope this article gives you a fair idea of Gulmarg in different seasons and the things you can do whilst there. Should you have any further queries please do not hesitate to reach out to us!
